Portages is the plural form of the noun "portage." A portage refers to the act or process of carrying or transporting a boat or other watercraft overland between two bodies of water. It is a method employed when there are obstacles such as rapids, waterfalls, or unnavigable sections along a river or between different bodies of water.
This term originated from the French word "porter," meaning "to carry," which accurately describes the action involved in a portage. It requires individuals to physically lift and carry a vessel, often with the aid of paddles, ropes, or other equipment, to bypass the impediments encountered in water navigation. Portaging is typically done by a team of people working together to ensure a successful transfer of the watercraft.
Historically, portages played a significant role in human transportation, as waterways were crucial trade routes and travel corridors before the development of infrastructure such as canals or roads. Indigenous peoples, explorers, fur traders, and early settlers relied heavily on portages to navigate across vast territories, allowing them to transport goods, reach new areas, or find alternative water routes.
Today, portages are still utilized in various recreational activities, particularly in canoeing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. They are essential for adventurers to continue their journey when faced with sections of waterways that are too hazardous or impassable by boats. Portaging requires physical strength, coordination, and careful planning to safely and efficiently transport the watercraft, gears, and supplies across the land.
